What is the Function of the OIG?
The Office of State Inspector General (OIG) investigates allegations of fraud, waste, abuse or misconduct within the executive branch of state government. The office also assists residents with locating the proper agencies to address their concern, if necessary. Furthermore, we can assist executive branch entities in identifying and correcting operational deficiencies.

How was the OIG Formed?The OIG was originally formed by executive order in 1988 under Governor Buddy Roemers administration. Subsequent governors saw the value of the office and have continued its existence. The office was statutority enabled in 2008. See R.S. 49:220.21 et seq.

The inspector general is appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Louisiana StateSenate.

What is the jurisdiction of the OIG?
The OIGs jurisdiction encompasses any agency, department, board, commission, or political subdivision and the programs thereunder within the executive branch of Louisianastate government. This jurisdiction can extend to local government entities when state or federal funds are involved.

Is the Office of State Inspector General a Law Enforcement Agency?
Yes. Act 831 of the 2008 Regular Session conferred to the OIG all investigative powers and privileges appurtenant to law enforcement except arrest power. The OIG also works in conjunction with other law enforcement agencies, including the Attorney General's Office, with respect to pursuing criminal investigations. The office also seeks cooperate and coordinate activity with the Office of Legislative Auditor.

2.You may report your concerns to us in writing by mail at P. O. Box 94095; Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9095

3.You may access our complaint form on our web site at http://www.doa.louisiana.gov/oig/inspector.htm.

4.You may stop by our office ( 150 Third Street, Third Floor, Baton Rouge, LA), meet with an OIG auditor, and provide the information directly to us.

If you give us your name, we cannot guarantee that your identity will be protected. If you believe that making a report to the OIG will place you at risk of retaliation, you should inform the OIG of this fact.

When Does the OIG Initiate an Investigation?
Investigations are only initiated upon the receipt of credible information alleging an act of fraud, waste, financial mismanagement or corruption within the executive branch of state government. Only the Inspector General can authorize the initiation of an investigation.

Are OIG Investigations Confidential?
Records prepared or obtained by the inspector general in connection with investigations conducted by the OIG shall be deemed confidential and protected from disclosure.

Any record or information obtained by the inspector general which is confidential pursuant to any other provision of law shall remain confidential, and it shall be a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not more than two thousand dollars or imprisonment for not more than one year, or both, for the inspector general or any of his employees, or any other public official, corporation, or individual, to make public any such information or record. See R.S. 49:220.25 as amended by LA LEGIS 831 (2008).

However, once a report is complete as indicated by signature of the inspector general, the report becomes a public record.

When are Reports of Investigations Made Available to the Public?
Once the OIG closes an investigation, the investigative report or audit is submitted to the governor for review. A compete report as indicated by signature of the inspector general is made available to the public through its publication on the OIG's website.

When Should I Contact the OIG?
You should contact the OIG whenever you have reason to suspect fraud, waste, abuse, corruption, misconduct or any other concerns within the state government or government entities, if state or federal funds are involved.

What Happens If the OIG Does Not Have Jurisdiction Over a Matter?
You will be notified of this fact, and whenever possible, we will refer you to the appropriate agency or organization that can provide assistance. If you do not give your name, but the information appears credible, we will still forward it to the appropriate agency or organization.